NEW YORK, October 18, 2025 (WAFA) – The head of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) mission, Luke Irving, warned on Saturday that the danger posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the Gaza Strip is increasing as the ceasefire takes effect.
According to the UN News website, Irvin noted that many displaced residents have begun returning to areas they were forced to flee during the war, emphasizing that clearing unexploded munitions will be a lengthy and complex process.
He commended the crucial efforts of Palestinian civil society and non-governmental organizations in raising awareness about UXO risks and called for increased financial and technical support to strengthen their capacities.
Irvin added that UNMAS has been operating in Gaza since 2009, working in coordination with other UN agencies. He confirmed that operations are now being expanded due to the rising movement of civilians and the return of families to heavily affected areas.
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